cel·i·ba·cy \ˈseləbəsē, -si\noun (-es) Etymology: Latin caelibatus celibacy + English -cy 1.: the state of not having a spouse : single life < celibacy can usually be tolerated as a state favorable to education — New Statesman & Nation > 2. a.: abstention from sexual intercourse b.: chastity; specifically: the obligation (as of certain priests) not to marry